2019 ASHS Annual Conference

Crossword puzzle assignments are well-suited to aid student learning of discipline-specific terminology. During fall 2015 (n=30) and 2016 (n=39), students in the Greenhouse Operations Management course at Kansas State University either solved (S) or created (C) crossword puzzles about greenhouse structural terminology and hydroponics terminology. Students were divided into two groups and each experienced both types of puzzle assignments; however, the order in which the groups received the types of puzzle assignments was reversed. Pre- and post-surveys and exam question scores allowed for comparison of student perception about the assignments and knowledge gained. Student confidence about their knowledge of terminology increased after completing the assignment. There was no difference in exam question scores between the groups. No significant difference in exam question scores occurred between the two types of assignment, suggesting that neither crossword puzzle assignment type offered any advantage.